Those who have recently driven east of the City of Wetaskiwin on Highway 13 may have noticed a new building being erected on the Wetaskiwin Agricultural Society grounds.
The agricultural society is in the midst of building a new meeting facility, which will replace the portable office and board room.
The Wetaskiwin county council was approached on Nov. 7 during the general meeting to provide support to the society and assist in the completion of the new building.
“The funding decision was referred to strategic planning in November, December,” said assistant CAO Rod Hawken.
The Wetaskiwin Agricultural Society has funds to reach a lock up stage for the building, and a loan will be used to complete temporary lighting, a functional heating system, and insulation, in the event of a budgetary shortfall.
The projection for funds raising is $220,000, and with a grant from the Community Facility Enhancement Program the society projects a completion date of June, 2018.
The proposed facility measures 70 feet by 100 feet, and will contain washrooms, a kitchen area, office area, announcer’s booth, meeting room, and a public hall with a 400 person capacity or 275 for a banquet.
With additional funding or in-kind support, the society says future options for the building include: subsequent building phases, water upgrades, including a fire hydrant; highway signage; and an additional road access, as mandated by Alberta transportation.
The Wetaskiwin Agricultural Society believes this project aligns itself with the County of Wetaskiwin’s mission to pool resources and provide a consistent level of core services to the community, enhancing the quality of life for present and future generations.